The UFC has released updated rankings with several notable changes. Arman Tsarukyan moved up two spots in the pound-for-pound rankings following his victories at wrestling and grappling tournaments. Roman Dolidze surpassed Paulo Costa in the middleweight rankings after successfully debuting at light heavyweight with a win over sixth-ranked Azamat Murzakanov. Costa entered the light heavyweight rankings at number seven. Aaron Pico made his first appearance in the top 15 at featherweight, while Josh Hockit debuted at number five in the heavyweight rankings.
The UFC released its latest official rankings on April 14, updating several divisions and the pound-for-pound list in notable ways.
Arman Tsarukyan climbed two spots in the pound-for-pound rankings after recording victories at wrestling and grappling tournaments, recognition of competitive activity outside the cage that the UFC factored into his placement.
Roman Dolidze, 37, made an immediate impact at light heavyweight after debuting in the division with a win over sixth-ranked Azamat Murzakanov. The Georgian fighter, who carries a 15-5 record and trains out of Xtreme Couture, moved up the middleweight rankings as a result, passing Paulo Costa to sit at number 12. Standing six-foot-two with a 76-inch reach, Dolidze averages 1.16 takedowns per 15 minutes and posts 0.7 submission attempts per 15 minutes, reflecting the grappling-oriented style he brings to both divisions.
Costa, meanwhile, entered the light heavyweight rankings at number seven following Dolidze's move past him at middleweight. The Brazilian striker, now 35 and holding a 16-4 record, lands an eye-catching 6.26 significant strikes per minute at 58 percent accuracy, making him one of the more dangerous stand-up threats in either division.
At featherweight, Aaron Pico broke into the top 15 for the first time in his career. The 29-year-old American, training out of Jackson-Wink MMA, holds a 14-5 record and brings an extraordinary wrestling foundation with nearly nine takedowns per 15 minutes. Josh Hockit also debuted in the rankings, entering the heavyweight division at number five.
Why it matters
- Dolidze's simultaneous presence in both middleweight and light heavyweight rankings adds intrigue to his divisional future
- Costa's new light heavyweight ranking opens potential matchups in a crowded 205-pound division
- Pico's top-15 featherweight debut signals growing recognition of a fighter who pairs elite wrestling with sharp striking volume
